What is editorial wedding photography? Is it the right choice for you?
Editorial wedding photography is a trendy buzzword that has recently dominated social media and wedding blogs; but what does it actually mean?
As a seasoned editorial wedding photographer based on the east coast, I have the privilege of documenting high end weddings across the globe. Our signature style blends documentary style images with an editorial and fine art feel, through our thoughtful attention to lighting, composition, and posing. This blog post will explain what editorial wedding photography is and some of the common stylistic elements you’ll find in an editorial wedding photographer’s portfolio.
What is Editorial Wedding Photography?
The textbook definition of editorial photography is “images that run alongside text in publications to help tell a story or educate readers.” In the context of weddings, editorial wedding photography refers to intentionally composed images that appear to be natural in order to create narrative gallery.
It’s All About Storytelling
The driving force behind an editorial wedding photo is storytelling. Editorial wedding photographers aim to narrate the wedding day story through imagery instead of words. This is why you often see editorial photographers capture a mix of establishing shots, portraits and little details to give context to the wedding day.
Approach to Posing
While the goal is to make the clients poses appear natural, editorial wedding photographers carefully compose each scene to ensure it aligns with their style. Placing subjects in well-lit spaces and providing gentle light direction result in photographs that look effortlessly candid. Whether it's capturing the intimate moments of buttoning up the dress during the getting ready process or spending time with the bridal party in the suite, every image contributes to the story.
Fashion Forward
Editorial wedding photography places a strong emphasis on fashion aesthetics. The images produced are not just photographs; they are stylized, refined, and often possess a magazine cover-worthy quality. This attention to fashion adds an extra layer of glamour to your wedding album.
Elements of Editorial Wedding Photography
Many editorial photographers utilize techniques including motion blur, establishing shots and curated details throughout their wedding galleries. All of these techniques are used in an effort to narrate the story of each couple’s wedding day. For example, a photographer may use motion blur to showcase how the couple is standing on a busy street corner with cars buzzing by behind them
An Eye For Composition
One hallmark of editorial wedding photography is the meticulous attention to composition. Beyond capturing moments, editorial photographers excel in creating visually stunning compositions that evoke emotion and give context to the story. The rule of thirds is often used to achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing layout. Whether it's a wide shot of the entire wedding venue or a close-up of the couple's hands exchanging rings, every frame is carefully composed to tell a part of the story. Additionally, the use of leading lines, framing, and unique angles adds an artistic dimension.
Masters of Light
Lighting is a crucial element that can make or break a photograph, and in editorial wedding photography, it is treated as a form of artistry. Editorial photographers are experts at manipulating light to enhance the mood and atmosphere of each image. Whether it's the soft, diffused glow during the golden hour or the dramatic play of shadows in a dimly lit reception hall, every lighting choice is intentional. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to the photographs, highlighting the contours of the subjects and creating a sense of dimension. In editorial wedding photography, lighting isn't just a technical consideration; it's a tool for storytelling.
Capturing Candid Moments
While intentional posing is a key aspect of editorial wedding photography, capturing candid moments remains equally important. Editorial photographers have a keen eye for anticipating and capturing genuine emotions. Whether it's a stolen glance between the newlyweds or a candid laugh shared among the wedding party, these unscripted moments add authenticity. At Grace Torres Photo, we specialize in blending posed shots with candid captures seamlessly, ensuring a comprehensive and emotionally rich portrayal of the wedding day.
Why Choose Editorial Wedding Photography?
One of the key reasons couples gravitate towards editorial wedding photography is its ability to capture moments in a way that tells a compelling story. Beyond the typical wedding snapshots, editorial photographers infuse an artistic touch, creating images that resemble scenes from a magazine.
As a seasoned wedding photographer based on the east coast, my experience has shown that this style is not just a passing trend but a timeless approach that adds a layer of elegance to your wedding memories. The intentional poses, meticulous attention to lighting, and focus on fashion contribute to a curated collection of images that are not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant.
Choosing the right wedding photography style is a deeply personal decision. If you are drawn to images that tell a story, embrace a touch of editorial flair, and have a keen eye for fashion, editorial wedding photography might be the perfect fit for you. It's not just about capturing moments; it's about crafting an artistic narrative that will be cherished for a lifetime.